Plantar heel discomfort often alters the way individuals walk, placing strain on other areas of the body and diminishing overall mobility. Tailored foot supports have shown promising outcomes in addressing these changes. After consistent use for one month, many users experience both less pain and more ease in movement. These custom devices help realign foot motion, leading to more natural step patterns and better control during walking. Improvements are not just felt, but also observed in the way time and space are used with each step, factors critical to efficient gait. Restoring balance and reducing discomfort through orthotic support can significantly improve daily activity levels. If you are struggling with lingering heel pain and altered movement, it is suggested you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

If you’re experiencing foot discomfort, have a history of foot and ankle injuries, or are interested in exploring Custom orthotics, don’t hesitate to contact one of our podiatrists at Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. Our doctors is dedicated to offering the care required to help you remain pain-free and stay on your feet. 

What are Custom Orthotics?

Custom orthotics refer to custom inserts designed for placement in different shoe types, including athletic and formal footwear, with the purpose of alleviating a spectrum of foot-related problems such as flat feet, heel pain, and overall foot discomfort. These inserts are instrumental in providing relief and comfort for a diverse range of foot conditions, including heel pain, and can also act as a proactive approach to injury prevention. 

Medical Grade Shoe Inserts: 

A diverse array of shoe inserts is available for addressing foot pain, heel discomfort, and minor issues. For instance, you can place arch supports in your shoes to rectify overarched or flat feet, and gel and cushioned insoles are frequently chosen for the comfort and relief they provide from foot and heel pain by reducing pressure. 

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Fair Lawn, Riverdale, and Englewood, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Flexibility and strength in the feet are essential for ballet dancers to achieve graceful movements and prevent injuries. Toe tapping is a simple yet effective exercise where dancers gently tap their toes on the floor to warm up the foot muscles and improve control. Resistance band exercises helping to build foot and ankle strength, while enhancing flexibility. Foot circles, performed by extending the leg and slowly rotating the foot in each direction, promote better range of motion and joint stability. Additionally, ankle rolls are another key stretch that involves gently rolling the ankles to loosen up the joints and prepare them for demanding routines. If you have incurred a foot or ankle injury during ballet, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist for appropriate treatment and suggestions about additional effective foot stretches.

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with one of our podiatrists from Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Stretching the muscles in the foot is an important part in any physical activity. Feet that are tight can lead to less flexibility and make you more prone to injury. One of the most common forms of foot pain, plantar fasciitis, can be stretched out to help ease the pain. Stretching can not only ease pain from plantar fasciitis but also prevent it as well. However, it is important to see a podiatrist first if stretching is right for you. Podiatrists can also recommend other ways to stretch your feet. Once you know whether stretching is right for you, here are some excellent stretches you can do.

• Using a foam roller or any cylindrical object (a water bottle or soda can will do), roll the object under your foot back and forth. You should also exert pressure on the object. Be sure to do this to both feet for a minute. Do this exercise three times each.
• Similar to the previous one, take a ball, such as a tennis ball, and roll it under your foot while seated and exert pressure on it.
• Grab a resistance band or towel and take a seat. If you are using a towel, fold it length wise. Next put either one between the ball of your foot and heel and pull with both hands on each side towards you. Hold this for 15 seconds and then switch feet. Do this three times for each foot.
• Finally hold your big toe while crossing one leg over the other. Pull the toe towards you and hold for 15 seconds. Once again do this three times per foot.

It is best to go easy when first stretching your foot and work your way up. If your foot starts hurting, stop exercising and ice and rest the foot. It is advised to then see a podiatrist for help.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Fair Lawn, Riverdale, and Englewood, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

When rheumatoid arthritis affects the feet and ankles, it can lead to progressive joint damage and deformities that interfere with basic movement. Pain, stiffness, and swelling commonly develop in the toes, midfoot, and ankles, often affecting both feet. Patients may experience bunions, claw toes, or hammertoes, making walking painful and forcing changes in gait. In advanced stages, the arches may collapse, or bumps may form along the midfoot, which can make wearing shoes painful. If medication does not adequately manage the foot or ankle pain, a podiatrist may recommend surgery. Common procedures include arthrodesis, which is a fusion of bones after removing damaged joint surfaces, and arthroplasty, which is a partial or total joint replacement. Fusion is especially common in the hindfoot and midfoot, where it can restore stability and reduce deformity. In the forefoot, surgery may straighten or reposition the toes. Ankle procedures include joint fusion or replacement, depending on the extent of damage. If you have foot pain related to arthritis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

• Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
• Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
• Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
• Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
• Age – Risk increases with age
• Gender –Most types are more common in women
• Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Fair Lawn, Riverdale, and Englewood, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.